Adventist Health Network and Cigna have launched an affordable-care program in the western suburbs. It is Cigna’s first program of its kind in Illinois.
The program, generally called an accountable care organization, aims to improve patient access to health care and better coordination of care while at the same time saving money. More than 5,000 people enrolled in a Cigna health plan who receive care from Adventist’s primary care physicians and specialists will be covered by the program.
“This collaboration with Cigna will play an important role in improving the health of our patients,” said George Mayzell, senior chief medical officer with Adventist Midwest Health. “Our partnership will allow us to collaborate on best practices for patient care and engagement, as well as cost management.”
Adventist Health Network is a physicians network affiliated with Adventist Midwest Health, which operates hospitals in Bolingbrook, Glendale Heights, Hinsdale and La Grange.
Cigna launched its first accountable care organization in 2008 and now has more than 80 programs in 27 states, including the new one with Adventist. Dr. Peter McCauley, regional medical executive for Cigna’s Northeast region, which includes the Midwest, said the partnerships have reduced unnecessary emergency room visits and increased preventive care, chicagobusiness.com reported.
